Today in History: Detective Allan Pinkerton
Today in History–August 25–the Library of Congress features Allan Pinkerton, born on this day in 1819. A dedicated abolitionist, Pinkerton had a shop that was a “station” for escaped slaves traveling the Underground Railroad but his detective career began by chance when he unwittingly discovered then knowingly helped nab two sets of counterfeiters. Find out more about the crime-busting exploits of this Private Eye and first Director of the U.S. Secret Service by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to uncover more primary source treasures.
Allan Pinkerton from America’s Library
Allan Pinkerton correspondence
Books & texts related to Allan Pinkerton
Allan Pinkerton historical newspaper coverage
Celebrating Women’s History: America’s First Female P.I. Library of Congress Blog March 31, 2015
U.S. legislation related to the Secret Service
Secret Service mentions in the Foreign Affairs Oral History Collection
Books & texts related to the U.S. Secret Service & others 1860-1919